A Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) memo QSO-25-26-NH released September 29 outlines welcome revisions to the Civil Money Penalty Reinvestment Program (CMPRP) that follow advocacy, as outlined  in a May 8, 2025 letter to the agency, from both LeadingAge national and LeadingAge state affiliates.

The changes increase project funding caps and reinstate allowance of program funding for certain technologies and behavioral health projects. In addition, the memo states that project funding caps will be increased from $5,000 to $6,000; certain technologies will be permitted as allowable expenses; and CMPRP funds will also be permitted for funding of projects related to behavioral health and workforce development.

LeadingAge is working to gather more details on allowable and non-allowable use details, specifically as it relates to technology.

Workforce development includes projects to improve the competency, education, and training of staff including nurse aides and registered nurses and is meant to complement activities initiated by CMS in the Nursing Home Staffing Campaign.

The agency indicated further revisions to program processes are being made, such as the inclusion of a standardized application and updated project reporting parameters. CMS will now require demonstrated success in meeting project goals and objectives before allowing for approval of projects in other states.

CMPRP resources are expected to be updated by October  6. Program revisions go into effect on October 9.